The world of fabrics and knitwear is constantly developing, providing better and better solutions for the clothing industry. For years, artificial fibers have played a key role in the production of swimsuits and sportswear, because they combine durability, flexibility and resistance to external conditions. Ecological alternatives are also increasingly appearing, which help reduce the amount of waste in the environment.
Let’s take a closer look at the properties and applications of different types of artificial fibers.
1. What are artificial fibers?
Artificial fibers are materials obtained in chemical processes from natural or synthetic raw materials. Depending on their origin, they are divided into:
- Synthetic fibers – produced from petrochemical raw materials, e.g. polyester, polyamide, elastane.
- Artificial fibers – obtained from processed natural raw materials, e.g. viscose, modal, lyocell.
In the production of sportswear and beachwear, synthetic fibers play a key role, which are characterized by high durability and resistance to moisture.
2. Artificial fibers in swimsuits and sportswear
Sportswear and swimsuits must be resistant to water, chlorine, UV radiation and intensive use. For this reason, the following are most often used in their production:
✔️ Polyester (PES)
✅ Very resistant to UV rays and chlorine, so it does not fade or lose its properties.
✅ Dries quickly and is resistant to creases.
✅ In modern versions (e.g. recycled polyester), it is an ecological alternative to standard fabrics.
✔️ Polyamide (PA, Nylon)
✅ Very soft and pleasant to the touch, often used in premium sportswear.
✅ It is characterized by high elasticity and body fit.
✅ It is resistant to abrasion and does not lose its shape even after many washes.
✔️ Elastane (Spandex, Lycra)
✅ Provides stretchability and excellent fit – a key component of swimsuits and sports leggings.
✅ Makes the material adhere perfectly to the body, but at the same time does not restrict movement.
✅ Most often used in blends with polyamide and polyester.
3. Ecological artificial fibers – the future of sports fashion
The ecological awareness of both producers and consumers is growing year by year. That is why innovative, ecological artificial fibers made from recycled materials are increasingly used.
♻️ ECONYL® – recycled nylon
One of the most groundbreaking materials on the market is ECONYL®, i.e. regenerated nylon, which is made from, among others, used fishing nets, plastic waste and industrial fabrics.
✅ It has identical properties to traditional polyamide, but its production is much more ecological.
✅ Helps reduce ocean waste and CO₂ emissions.
✅ Used by global brands producing premium swimwear and sportswear.
♻️ Recycled Polyester (rPET)
✅ Made from recycled PET bottles, which are transformed into modern fabrics instead of going to landfill.
✅ Retains high moisture and UV resistance, like standard polyester.
✅ Increasingly used in the production of leggings, sports tops and swimsuits.
4. Why choose synthetic fibers in sportswear?
- Durability – synthetic materials are more resistant to wear than natural fabrics.
- Quick drying – polyester and polyamide do not absorb water like cotton, making them ideal for swimwear or training clothes.
- Resistance to UV rays and chlorine – a particularly important feature in the case of swimwear.
- Elasticity – elastane allows for a perfect fit of clothing to the body and full freedom of movement.
- Ecological alternatives – materials such as ECONYL® or rPET help reduce the amount of plastic waste and protect the environment.
Summary
Man-made fibres play a key role in the production of sportswear and swimwear – they provide durability, comfort and resistance to difficult conditions. Ecological alternatives are also increasingly appearing on the market, which help reduce the amount of plastic waste and create more sustainable fashion.
When choosing swimwear or sportswear, it is worth paying attention to the material composition – modern synthetic fibres guarantee the comfort and longevity of the product, and ecological versions allow you to take care of the planet. ♻️
Do you have questions about the materials for the production of your collection? Contact us – we will be happy to advise!